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The majority of Benign Prostate Hyperplasia (BPH) laser procedures are performed today using the vaporization method of tissue ablation, as it is a minimally invasive, clinically effective, intuitive procedure which is modelled after the gold standard of care (Trans Urethral Resection of the Prostate). Recently, a new procedure referred to as laser “enucleation” of the prostate has demonstrated the ability to remove excess prostatic tissue with a variety of different laser wavelengths. A more involved and complex procedure with a longer learning curve, enucleation comprises cutting out sections of the prostate using a laser and end cutting fibers and then removing those segments with a device called a morcellator.

A less common alternative for the treatment of BPH, Diode Laser Enucleation of the Prostate (DILEP) must be performed in an operating room environment and typically requires overnight stay as it is a more involved procedure than vaporization. Regardless, where the decision may be made that enucleation is the preferred treatment option for the case, the Pathfinder diode laser delivers all of the same benefits to the hospital including; portability (110V power), compact design, ease of use (including pre-set enucleation settings), and affordability of the laser device and consumable fibers. In comparison to performance benefits versus other lasers which enucleate, the Pathfinder boasts high ablation rates (tissue removal) with durable coagulation, which enhances visibility and reduces total treatment time for this procedure.

For more information on how the Pathfinder TURP laser can enhance the quality of patient care while reducing operational costs, contact the team at Surgical Lasers Inc. today.

The evolution of technology typically attempts to enhance ‘performance’. However, it’s important to point out; bigger doesn’t always translate into better. In the world of holmium laser lithotripsy excellence in technical engineering can improve efficiency, facilitate surgical precision and enhance the fundamental parameters of performance. Specifically, as it relates to ‘power’, less can actually translate into more!

Power versus Energy – There is a common misunderstanding that greater power (measured in watts) yields greater performance. While adequate power is an important component to the performance of any laser, it is the energy delivered at the fiber-tissue interface that facilitates the “performance”, which in the case of laser lithotripsy, is fragmentation of the stone. This output energy is measured in joules (watts/cm²) and the HYPHO urology lasers boast the highest output energy in their class. Simply put; Innovative engineering has led to more efficient use of input power, leading greater output energy.

Surgical Precision & Control – Another critical component of performance is control, especially with calculi in the upper ureter and kidney. A fundamental objective in these areas is to maintain the stability of the stone and minimize the risk of retropulsion and inadvertent stone migration. Multiple evidence-based clinical studies available in the public domain have documented the direct relationship between longer pulse length and increased stone stability. In that regard, the HYPHO urology lasers for lithotripsy have the longest pulse length of ANY holmium laser on the market today, maximizing control and minimizing the risk of retroplusion and inadvertent stone migration.

A final thought; while some manufacturers promote high powered (watts) ‘2 in 1’ laser systems, which cost considerably more, it’s important to clarify that these systems can only be used for one procedure at one time. In that regard, when considering investment in laser technology which is capable of multiple functionality, it is pertinent to investigate the cost of two individual laser systems which of course could be used simultaneously and actually increase productivity and availability of service.

For more information on innovations in holmium laser engineering and the performance and control advantages of the HYPHO compact holmium urology laser for lithotripsy, contact the team at Surgical Lasers Inc. today.

The new compact (110V) HYPHO holmium laser is engineered and approved to perform multiple medical procedures including laser lithotripsy (fragmentation and “dusting”) and related soft tissue procedures (ablation & coagulation of soft tissue such as bladder tumours). As it relates to its primary functionality, the new HYPHO urology laser is designed to maximize performance comprising simultaneous speed of ablation, safety & control.

The two common methods for the destruction and removal of kidney and bladder stones with a holmium laser are; fragmentation & “dusting”. Fragmentation, is the traditional method associated with holmium laser lithotripsy which involves using the laser and fiber(s) to access and break down the stone into smaller pieces which are then removed with a basket. Recently, a newer fragmentation technique referred to as “dusting” has been developed, which involves breaking the stones into small enough pieces for the patient to pass on their own, hence eliminating the requirement for basket retrieval.

Stone “Dusting”; Reducing Total Treatment Time “Dusting” the stone with a holmium laser and eliminating the requirement for basket retrieval can reduce total treatment time. A more controlled form of fragmentation, “dusting” which breaks away smaller particles typically from the perimeter of the calculi, can be performed by increasing the photo-thermal interaction on the target tissue. In order to facilitate a true “dusting” interaction, the laser must either support; 1.) high frequencies (measured in Hz), or 2.) longer pulse durations (measured in µsec).

Generally speaking; higher powered (80+ watts), higher frequency (60 – 80 Hz), short pulse lasers which facilitate “dusting” run on 220V power and can be cost prohibitive. Lower cost, lower powered (25 – 30 watts) portable devices typically don’t support either high enough frequencies or long enough pulse durations to facilitate “dusting”. The HYPHO urology lasers are truly capable of “dusting” which is facilitated by the longest pulse duration of any holmium laser on the market.

For more information on innovations in holmium laser engineering and the performance and control advantages of the HYPHO compact (110V) holmium urology laser for lithotripsy, contact the team at Surgical Lasers Inc. today.

In previous posts, we discussed how the Pathfinder laser makes it possible for urologists to perform a BPH procedure in-office, resulting in a more comfortable patient experience. In addition to being a more convenient option for patients, the Pathfinder also increases the efficiency of your practice.

No Hospital Resources Required – The Pathfinder laser enables you to perform BPH procedure in-office, eliminating the need for a hospital stay. Scheduling resources with the hospital takes up valuable time and can be complicated. The ability to do everything in-office makes the process go much more smoothly.

Lower Operating Costs – The Pathfinder is portable, and costs less to operate and maintain. With its low-cost consumables and inexpensive maintenance, the Pathfinder saves your practice money while increasing its operational efficiency.

Long-Term Relief Quickly – Laser BPH using the Pathfinder laser is a convenient option for patients because it can cost less than a hospital visit, and can be done with local anesthetic. The treatment is also more than simply short term symptom relief and provides long-term relief for benign prostatic hyperplasia, reducing or eliminating the need for repeat treatment. With the Pathfinder laser, you will be able to perform more procedures per day, and those patients will likely not need additional treatment.

For more information about the Pathfinder and our other surgical lasers, contact the team at Surgical Lasers, Inc.

Surgical lasers like the HYPHO compact holmium laser have made the treatment of kidney, upper ureter and bladder stones safer, more effective, and more comfortable for the patients. The HYPHO can also greatly reduces operating costs for your facility.

The treatment of kidney stones with urology lasers is a procedure referred to as laser lithotripsy. The laser is used to break apart the stones in a minimally invasive manner and without an incision. A ureteroscope is passed into the urinary tract which provides a channel for the laser’s fiber to access the stone. Then, when the laser energy breaks the stone, the smaller particles are retrieved by a surgeon (basket retrieval) or passed naturally during urination. The HYPHO laser can eliminates the requirement for basket retrieval with a process called “stone dusting,” which can shorten treatment times.

Like any medical procedure, laser lithotripsy may come with potential risks. These risks can include injury to the urinary tract, blood in the urine, infection, or the need for additional procedures if some stone fragments do not pass. The HYPHO laser can assist the surgeon in minimizing these risks. The versatility of the laser to target both large and small stones without damaging surrounding tissues and the laser’s long pulse durations increase control and the stability of the stone and can create smaller fragments (“dusting”) significantly reducing the risk of complications during and after laser lithotripsy.

The innovative HYPHO laser can increase efficiency of the procedure, increase control (reduce inadvertent stone migration), reduce patient recovery times, increase ROI for your practice, and provide a more comfortable experience overall for the patient. Contact our team today to learn more about the compact HYPHO laser and how you can implement it in your practice for laser lithotripsy.

Major urological procedures like BPH, TURP, and laser lithotripsy used to require a visit to the hospital operating room. Today, you can implement certain minimally invasive solutions in your office or outpatient facility with surgical lasers. Surgical Lasers Inc. offers two practical laser solutions designed to improve clinical outcomes, facilitate shorter treatment times and faster recovery, and maximize the availability of service and productivity.

The Pathfinder Laser – The Pathfinder utilizes the latest technology for effective laser BPH. This surgical laser makes treatment more comfortable for patients while maintaining clinical efficacy. The laser is also cost-effective and portable, making it easy to perform laser BPH with local anesthetic in an in-office environment.

The HYPHO Laser – The HYPHO laser is more versatile and cost-effective than any other holmium laser available on the market. The HYPHO represents a viable, high performance and precise alternative for laser lithotripsy in any operating room or surgery center. When you want to provide a minimally invasive solution capable of reducing operational time for kidney and bladder stones, you should consider implementing the HYPHO laser in your practice.

Implementing Surgical Lasers in Your Practice

When you are looking to provide safe, effective, and affordable urology treatments to your patients, you need the medical laser solutions from SLI. Contact our team today to learn how you can implement our surgical laser solutions at your practice.

Investing in quality medical equipment for your medical practice is not always cost-effective. Given the cost prohibitive nature of implementing current technology into an office environment, patients often have no choice but to head to the hospital to get the treatments they require. With the Pathfinder laser, this is no longer the cases as it facilitates office based laser BPH procedure in a cost effective manner.

Low Investment Cost – The Pathfinder is a multi-disciplinary diode laser that can be manufactured in a cost effective manner. Compared to alternative laser systems, these urology lasers have a much lower purchase price.

Low Maintenance Cost – This high-performance laser is virtually maintenance-free, only requiring annual calibration is most cases. You no longer need costly monthly maintenance contracts to own and operate a surgical laser.

Low Logistics Cost – The Pathfinder medical laser weighs less than 30Kg and is housed in a portable case. This makes it easy to move the laser between facilities, making obtaining this laser and transporting it is very affordable.

Low Consumables Cost – The Pathfinder utilizes the most affordable, highest-quality fibers on the market, including lateral/side fire, contact, and end-cutting fibers. The cost of consumables is probably the most crucial difference between the Pathfinder and other medical lasers.

The Pathfinder is an extremely effective yet affordable medical laser that makes in-office laser BPH a possibility. Learn more about the Pathfinder here.

When implementing a new procedure or piece of equipment at your practice, having the right training is essential. That’s why our medical laser manufacturers also offer comprehensive didactic and hands-on clinical workshops and onsite physician and staff training.

Comprehensive Technical, Operational, and Clinical Training

Our training programs are packed with useful information including an overview of laser physics and fundamentals, absorption characteristics, modes of operation, and techniques. Understanding the science behind the laser solutions you implement will significantly increase your ability to perform procedures for your patients. We also go over the operational efficiencies and safety considerations of the surgical lasers.

Live Clinical Workshops with an Experienced Laser Clinician

In addition to didactic training, we also offer hands-on live patient clinical workshops. Our experienced laser clinician also provides in-office operational and surgical training for new users. Our clinical trainers have over 30 years of OR training and experience across multiple medical disciplines.

Technological advances in the medical field not only make treatment more effective, but they enhance the patient experience. When creating new treatment methods, increasing patient comfort should always be a goal. This is why the ability to perform BPH treatments in an office setting instead of an OR is such a breakthrough. This treatment for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia achieves permanent results with a shorter recovery time and can be performed in your office with the portable and compact Pathfinder Laser.

Comfort

Innovative urology lasers have made resection of the prostate much easier for both surgeons and patients. Still, not many patients are comfortable with OR surgical procedures. Being able to perform this operation in your office instead of an OR provides the patient with the comfort of familiar surroundings. The operation is performed by a familiar face: their urologist, which makes patients feel more confident and patient acceptance for the procedure rises.

Convenience

The Pathfinder in-office laser solution is incredibly convenient. Patients go to their urologist’s office for the procedure and can go home the same day. You also have the option of using only local anesthetic, eliminating the potential complications that come with anesthesia.

Cost-Effective

The Pathfinder Laser is a cost-effective solution for BPH. You don’t have to use hospital resources, you can perform more procedures in a day because total treatment times are shoter, and total treatment costs with the Pathfinfer laser and fibers are lower regardless of where the treatments are perfromed (office or OR).

In our last post, we discussed how the Pathfinder Laser makes the TURP procedure more comfortable for patients because it is minimally invasive and requires much less recovery time. In this post, we will look at the science behind this innovative soft tissue laser and discuss how it works more in-depth.

The Science

In plain terms, the laser can only interact with tissue in the presence of something called a photo-receptor molecule – a molecule capable of absorbing the photonic energy emitted by the laser. The higher the absorption of the laser light in the molecule, the greater the interaction. The prostate is a ‘soft tissue’ gland and the Pathfinder 980nm diode laser specifically targets water in soft tissue (soft tissue is comprised of more than 70% water). This results in more efficient and effective interaction and hence ‘ablation’ or vaporization of the prostate, which means that treatment time is drastically reduced.

The Pathfinder is also much safer to use because its efficient targeting method results in less collateral thermal effect on the surrounding healthy tissue. The specific light emitted by the laser precisely controls depth of penetration and practically eliminates the risk of the laser inadvertently interacting with any of the surrounding healthy tissue.

More Efficient Technology

Not only is the Pathfinder an innovative treatment for reducing recovery times and maximizing patient comfort, but it also makes it possible for laser BPH to be done in-office rather than in the hospital. The Pathfinder is manufactured to be energy efficient, compact, and portable, and it runs on standard 110V electricity. It is also cost-effective and can be used as an alternative for multiple surgical procedures. Its portability allows it to be easily transported between locations.

To learn more about the Pathfinder Laser and its applications, contact our team at Surgical Lasers, Inc.